Karachi: Pakistan’s renowned white-ball all-rounder, Imad Wasim, has officially announced his retirement from international cricket. The announcement comes six months after he made a brief return to represent Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup 2023.
In a heartfelt post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Imad, aged 35, shared his decision:
“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to retire from international cricket. Representing Pakistan on the world stage has been the greatest honour of my life.”
This marks the conclusion of an international career that showcased his talent as a dependable all-rounder in limited-overs cricket.
A Journey Full of Highs and Challenges
Imad Wasim had initially retired from international cricket in November 2022 due to ongoing fitness issues and prolonged periods of non-selection. However, in 2023, he made a dramatic comeback to represent Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup, held in the United States and the West Indies. Despite his return, Pakistan’s campaign was disappointing, as the team exited in the first round after losses to the United States and India.
Imad’s individual performance in the tournament was underwhelming. Across three matches, he managed to take only three wickets and scored just 19 runs. The lackluster showing prompted him to reconsider his future in international cricket.
Imad Wasim’s Career at a Glance
Imad Wasim leaves behind a legacy as one of Pakistan’s prominent white-ball players, known for his spin bowling and ability to contribute with the bat. Below are his key career stats:
One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Matches Played: 55
- Wickets Taken: 44
- Runs Scored: 986
Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)
- Matches Played: 75
- Wickets Taken: 73
- Runs Scored: 554
Imad was particularly valued for his economical bowling in T20s and his ability to bat in pressure situations. Over the years, he became a key figure in Pakistan’s white-ball cricket setup.
Continued Presence in Franchise and Domestic Cricket
While Imad has bid farewell to the international stage, he made it clear that his cricketing journey is far from over. The seasoned all-rounder intends to remain active in domestic leagues and franchise cricket worldwide.
This move mirrors the choices of several other cricketers who have stepped away from international duties to focus on lucrative T20 leagues around the globe. Fans can expect to see Imad showcasing his skills in popular tournaments such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Big Bash League (BBL), and other franchise events.
Reflections on Imad Wasim’s Legacy
Imad Wasim’s contribution to Pakistan cricket goes beyond mere numbers. Known for his calm demeanor and cricketing intelligence, he often provided stability in tight games. His memorable performances, especially in T20s, earned him a reputation as one of Pakistan’s most reliable all-rounders in recent years.
Despite his struggles with form and fitness, Imad’s commitment to representing Pakistan at the highest level was evident throughout his career. His decision to retire marks the end of an era for Pakistani white-ball cricket but also opens up opportunities for emerging talent.
Final Thoughts
Imad Wasim’s departure from international cricket is a bittersweet moment for Pakistan cricket fans. While his presence will be missed on the global stage, his continued participation in franchise and domestic cricket ensures his fans will still witness his talent.
As he turns the page to a new chapter in his career, cricket enthusiasts worldwide wish him success in his future endeavors. Imad’s journey serves as a reminder of the passion, dedication, and resilience required to play at the top level.
